Top 3 cities in Malta
The most beautiful cities in Malta
Malta, an archipelago in the Mediterranean, attracts numerous visitors each year with its breathtaking nature and sunny weather. As a popular destination, Malta offers a unique blend of historic cities, picturesque beaches, and impressive rock formations.
In the fascinating capital of Valletta, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, travellers can explore numerous attractions on foot. The narrow streets of Mdina, the "silent city," transport you to bygone times. The insider tip city of Żurrieq, a true paradise for nature lovers, entices with picturesque landscapes, idyllic beaches, and a tranquil atmosphere.
The Republic of Malta, with its three islands Malta, Gozo, and Comino, also offers numerous possibilities for outdoor activities such as diving in the deep blue Mediterranean, boat tours past impressive cliffs, and hikes through picturesque villages. The Maltese cuisine pleases the palate with Mediterranean flavors, fresh seafood, and unique local specialties.
In this post, we present to you our top 3 most beautiful places in Malta with the top attractions.
What you should know about Malta
- In terms of area and population, Malta is only about as big as the city of Bremen.
- Official languages: Maltese, English
- The Republic of Malta consists of three inhabited islands: Malta, Comino, and Gozo. Between the island of Comino and the uninhabited island of Cominotto lies the Blue Lagoon - one of Malta's most famous attractions.
- At Popeye Village amusement park, visitors can immerse themselves in the world of the 1979 film "Popeye – the Sailor Man" and learn more about set construction and filmmaking.
- The world-famous series "Game of Thrones" was partly filmed in Malta, including at the city gate of Mdina and the spectacular Azure Window rock formation. However, the Azure Window can no longer be admired as it collapsed completely during a storm in 2017.
- Among the most beautiful diving spots on the Maltese island of Gozo are the Inland Sea and the 15 meters deep Blue Hole.
- For a beach holiday, Golden Bay with its namesake golden sand is the ideal destination.
- Since Malta was a British colony from 1814 to 1964, there is left-hand traffic in Malta.
Top 3 cities in Malta
Valletta
Situated on a rocky promontory between the picturesque natural harbors of Grand Harbour and Marsamxett Harbour lies Malta's capital, Valletta. With only about 5,900 inhabitants, Valletta is the smallest capital city of an EU country. The cityscape of Valletta is characterized by baroque buildings made of sand-colored Globigerina limestone. This Maltese type of limestone gives the city its uniformly warm charm.
A particularly beautiful view of Valletta and the Grand Harbour can be caught from the Upper Barrakka Gardens. The Lower Barrakka Gardens, located about 600 meters away and at a lower elevation, are also worth a visit. Both of these magnificent garden complexes are small oases amidst the city.
Those who have sufficiently recharged in the Barrakka Gardens can take a pleasant walk through the city, which spans less than one square kilometer, to visit the main attractions. This includes, for example, St. John's Co-Cathedral, within whose ornate interior one of Caravaggio's most famous paintings can be admired. The church is also called a co-cathedral because it shares the seat of the Maltese Archbishop with St. Paul's Cathedral in Mdina.
The area surrounding the capital also has plenty of culture and entertainment to offer: South of Valletta is the Hypogeum of Ħal-Saflieni, one of Malta's most significant archaeological sites, which has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage since 1980. In the evening, many visitors to Valletta head north to the coastal town of St. Julian's. The district of Paceville there is known for its extravagant nightlife.
Summary: The city of Valletta impresses with its spectacular location on the Mediterranean and its unique cityscape. Due to its small size, it can be easily explored on foot.
Mdina
Malta's former capital, Mdina, invites its visitors on a journey into the past with its medieval flair. The city is largely free of tourist facilities such as hotels and restaurants, making it primarily suitable for day trips. At night, it is almost deserted, hence Mdina's nickname "the silent city."
The journey back in time begins as you enter through Mdina's medieval city walls via the impressive Main Gate, which served as a backdrop for the series "Game of Thrones," among others. The city walls themselves can be admired or walked on from the outside.
Within the city walls, St. Paul's Cathedral is an absolute must-see. It serves, along with St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, as the main seat of the Archbishop of Malta. The neighbouring Cathedral Museum displays significant Roman Catholic objects and artworks.
One of the best-preserved medieval buildings in Mdina is Palazzo Falson, also known as the Norman House. Palazzo Falson is particularly famous for its courtyard with the lion-headed fountain. The rooms of the Palazzo now house a museum, where visitors can learn more about the 800-year history of the building.
Summary: Mdina is a medieval city often referred to as "the silent city." It is known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and fortified walls.
Żurrieq
Żurrieq is one of the oldest cities on the entire archipelago. The city is a particularly good destination for those wanting to explore the southeastern cliffs of the island during their trip to Malta. Żurrieq is best known for the Blue Grotto, one of Malta's most famous attractions. It is a cave accessible by water. Its namesake light blue color is given to the Blue Grotto by blue algae.
The Dingli Cliffs, the highest point of the archipelago, are also easily accessible from Żurrieq. The Blue Grotto and the Dingli Cliffs, along with the historic temple complex Ħaġar Qim and St. Peter's Pool bathing cove, are among the region's biggest tourist draws.
For those who want to experience Malta's rock landscape and the warm, blue Mediterranean away from the hustle and bustle of tourism, Il-Kalanka Beach bay is a better choice. The bay is one of the island's hidden insider tips. On the way back from Il-Kalanka or St. Peter’s Pool, it's worth making a detour to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk with its characteristic colorful boats.
Summary: Żurrieq is the perfect place for exploration and relaxation on Malta's southeast coast. Magical rock landscapes and sparkling light blue water invite you to linger.
Conclusion: Small, but not to be underestimated
In Malta, you can explore the history of the archipelago, enjoy the sun on the beaches, or experience the exciting nightlife. With its natural beauty and unique Mediterranean architecture, the rocky limestone island is an unforgettable travel destination that enchants your senses and leaves you with unforgettable memories.
Has the travel bug bitten you, and do you want to experience Malta for yourself?
► Here, you can find more information about the toll regulations in Malta to be optimally prepared for your trip.